How can you improve indoor air quality with pets in the home?

2 Clean your pet and your home regularly

One of the best ways to improve your indoor air quality with pets is to groom them frequently. Brushing your pet outside can reduce the amount of hair and dander they bring inside. You can also bathe your pet once a week or as recommended by your veterinarian, using a mild shampoo that won't irritate their skin. Additionally, you should clean your home thoroughly and often, using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, a damp cloth, and a mop. Pay special attention to areas where your pet spends most of their time, such as their bed, toys, and litter box. You should also wash your pet's bedding and accessories regularly in hot water.

3 Change your air filters and use air purifiers

Another effective way to improve your indoor air quality with pets is to maintain your HVAC system and use air purifiers. You should change your air filters every one to three months, depending on how many pets you have and how often you use your system. You can also install high-efficiency filters that can capture more particles and allergens from the air. Additionally, you can use air purifiers in rooms where your pet stays or sleeps, or in areas where you spend most of your time. Look for air purifiers that have HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, or ionizers, as these can remove pet dander, odors, and bacteria from the air.

4 Ventilate your home and control humidity

Another important factor that affects your indoor air quality with pets is ventilation and humidity. You should open your windows and doors regularly to let fresh air circulate in your home and dilute any pollutants. You can also use fans or exhaust vents to remove stale or humid air from your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. Moreover, you should monitor and control the humidity level in your home, as high humidity can promote the growth of mold, mildew, and dust mites, which can worsen your air quality and trigger allergies. You can use a dehumidifier or an air conditioner to keep the humidity level between 30% and 50%.

5 Limit your pet's access to certain areas

Finally, you can improve your indoor air quality with pets by setting some boundaries for them. You can limit your pet's access to certain rooms, such as your bedroom, your office, or your children's playroom, where you want to keep the air as clean as possible. You can also use gates, doors, or crates to confine your pet to a designated area when you are not home or when you have guests. This way, you can reduce the exposure to pet allergens and odors in your home, and create a more comfortable and healthy environment for yourself and your family.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?